How to install a WordPress child theme

Puppy shenanigans included, a WordPress theme and child theme can be installed in less than 5 minutes.  Watch the video below for step-by-step instructions.  Or if you’d prefer to read, scroll below the video.

Here’s how to install a Genesis child theme in WordPress (this applies to any child theme, not just Genesis, but Genesis is what mine are built on, and I always recommend it):

1. In your WordPress dashboard, hover over “Appearance” in the left-side menu.  Click on “Themes.”
2. Click on the button that says “Add new” towards the top.
3. The button will change to “Upload theme” click that.
4. Click the “Choose File” button, then select the parent theme (in this case, the zipped folder called “genesis”).  Click “Install now.”
5. Click the text that says “Return to themes page”
6. Click the button that says “Add new” again, and again, click “Upload theme.”
7. Click “Choose File” and now select your child theme and click “Install Now.”
8. Click “Live Preview” and you will get a preview of what your new child theme will look like.
9. Make all the tweaks and adjustments you want, then click “Save & Activate.”

That’s it!  Your child theme is installed and live on your website.